Rodri completes £65m Barcelona move

World Cup winner Rodri is set to embark on a new chapter in his career after completing a move to Barcelona from Manchester City for a reported fee of £65 million. The 2024 Ballon d'Or winner has signed a four-year deal with the Spanish club, marking his return to La Liga after departing Atletico Madrid for City in 2019. Rodri expressed his enthusiasm for the transfer, stating, "I’m very happy and excited about this new stage in my career. It’s a fresh challenge, a chance to experience new things and feel that excitement again." He believes Barcelona is an ambitious club that aligns with his personality and is eager to contribute to their objectives. The midfielder also shared his positive outlook on playing under manager Hansi Flick, noting, "I’m happy to have a coach who I think will bring a lot to my career. It’s a style that I think is somewhat different from what I’ve experienced before, so it will be enriching and help me grow as a player." Rodri departs Manchester City after seven successful seasons, during which he made 298 appearances and secured 12 major trophies, including four Premier League titles, two FA Cups, three EFL Cups, and the Champions League in 2023. Despite his final two seasons being hampered by injuries, he regained his top form at the recent World Cup, where he was named player of the tournament as Spain clinched the title. In a farewell message, Rodri conveyed immense pride and gratitude to City fans for the "very special and unforgettable" memories created together, emphasizing how the club and Manchester shaped him both as a player and a person.

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I’m very happy and excited about this new stage in my career. It’s a fresh challenge, a chance to experience new things and feel that excitement again.